Mt. Erciyes 3917 m., One of Turkey’s most important mountaineering and winter sports centers, Mount Erciyes rises from the South of the Kayseri valley. The Sultan Marshes lie to its West and to the South falls the Develi Valley. Its summit is always covered in snow and ice, Mt. Erciyes ranks as central Anatolia’s tallest volcano. Approximately 18 kilometers in diameter and covering an area of 1000 square kilometers, the mountain’s stratification and geology make it a fascinating geographical formation.
The region’s climate, influenced by that of the Anatolian plateau, is considered typical of steppe geography. Certainly the winter brings considerable snowfall to the higher elevations. The northern side of the mountain enjoys a somewhat more temperate climate encouraging the cultivation of vast areas of vine and fruit orchards between 1100 and 1600 meters. Above that altitude, vast meadows stretch far into the distance. The higher elevations display typical alpine vegetation. Herds of animals graze year round on the East, North and West slopes of the mountain.
Erciyes, with an elevation of 3917 meters, is a volcanic mountain whose summit is always covered with snow and fog, and has become synonymous with the city of Kayseri. This lava-spewing mountain, responsible for the ‘fairy-chimney’ rock formations in nearby Cappadocia, impressed the Meek people living at its base so much that their coins bear an impression of the mountain with lava boiling out of the top. The first person to successfully make the summit was W. J. Hamilton in 1837, and the first Turk was Miralay Cemil Cahit Bey in 1924. Besides being a popular spot for mountain climbers, it is also one of Turkey’s best winter-sport resorts. From the top of the mountain, if the weather is clear, there is a stunning view of an area stretching from Cappadocia to the Taurus Mountains.
Height: 3917m
Arrival: Erciyes is 40 minutes by road from Kayseri airport, and 30 minutes from the city centre. Most hotels organise transport to the ski area for their visitors.
Geography: The skiing areas on the eastern and northern slopes of the Erciyes Mountain are between the altitudes of 2200 – 3100m. The best season for skiing is between late November and late April, with an average depth of approximately 2m of very powdery snow. The region has a terrestrial climate and the dominant wind direction is southerly and westerly.
Facilities: There are four government guesthouses and a private hotel, plus restaurants, bars, swimming pool, large cafe and medical facilities. Ski instructors and equipment rental are available. There is one chair-lift and two T-bars.
The Best Time for Summer Climbs: Between May and October.
Characteristics: An inactive volcano, it is the highest peak in Central Anatolia. On the northern slope there is a 700m mountain glacier, and on the eastern slope at an elevation of 2100-2900 meters, is the Tekir plateau which is a winter sports centre. The hike from the ski-lift to the campsite at Cobaninine takes about 2½ – 3 hours in winter. The climb from Cobaninine to Mola tasi, at the head of Seytan Creek, takes an hour, and climbing on cross-country skis is popular. From here, it takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit of the smaller peak. In the winter months, there is a danger of avalanches in Seytan’s Creek and in the spring (May and June), it is necessary to wear a helmet because of the falling rocks.
Transport and Accommodation: Kayseri can be reached from Istanbul and Ankara by road, train and plane. There is a heated 100-bed mountain resort on the Tekir plateau, with telephone connection, and also a new 100-room hotel. Kayseri has a wide selection of hotels and restaurants.
Trips and Climbs: Mountaineers attempt Mt. Erciyes either on the Northwestern flank or from the South and find the best climbing in June, July, August, and September.
Climbing Equipment: Crampon, rope, pick, helmet, a variety of safety gear (like an ice-auger, and hammer) and camping equipment.
Climbing from the Tekir plateau: This is the safest ascent. The mountain resort, which can be reached via Hisarcik, is 25km from Kayseri. From the resort, the ascent and descent can be completed in about 8-10 hours. Climbing up the north-west face is a little more difficult but a very enjoyable climb. From Kayseri go to Hacilar and then Sutdonduran plateau (2850 m.) via Akinyurdu. Camp can be set up here.
Regional Attractions: Tourists visiting the area should also see the fantastic rock formations, underground cities and fabulous frescoes in rock carved churches in neighboring Cappadocia. The Sultan Marshes, a habitat for many different species of birds, has fortunately been designated a national park and wildlife preserve.